A vast country with varied geographies, Mexico experiences many microclimates. But broadly speaking, its seasons can be separated into a dry winter and a wet summer season.
The dry season – This runs from November to April and is the best time to visit Mexico for good weather. The coastal region sees temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C, clear blue skies and beach-perfect weather. Mexico City is usually a pleasant 22°C, perfect for sightseeing.
Naturally, it is also the high season for travellers. This is particularly seen at all the popular destinations in Mexico during the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Day, and in Cancun and the Riviera Maya during spring break and Easter.
The good news, however, is that there are quieter periods during this season that allow you to enjoy great weather with less crowds. November, the first half of December and the latter part of January see temporary lulls in tourist traffic.
The rainy season – The rainy season in Mexico runs from May to October. Even if you are visiting during the rainy season, you will only experience brief showers in the afternoon or evening. The upside of visiting during this season is that the surroundings are greener and alive.
Hurricane season descends upon the Yucatán region and the Southern Pacific Coast from June to October. The probability of hurricanes hitting the area varies yearly, but you can expect frequent, yet brief, rain spells during these months.
The months of June, July and August are the hottest in Mexico, and the heat can be particularly felt in the coastal regions, the Yucatán Peninsula and southern parts of Mexico. Temperatures during this time range from the high 20s to the mid-30s, and humidity levels, especially along the coast, are higher. In the south, mercury reading can even touch the 40°C mark.
Mexico City – Located inland and at an altitude of 7000+ feet, Mexico City sees daytime highs ranging from the low to upper 20s throughout the year. The only deciding factor on when to visit Mexico City is the rains. The best time to visit Mexico City is between March and May, when rainfall levels are low, and temperatures are pleasant.
Baja California – This little strip of heaven, famous for its picturesque beaches and amazing underwater life experiences the best weather conditions from December to April. The months of August, September and October see increased rainfall and the possibility of hurricanes spoiling your holiday plans.
Pacific Coast – The high season on Mexico’s Pacific Coast matches that of the rest of the country, with the crowds coming in to enjoy the region’s beautiful beaches and charming towns from December to April, the period with the least rainfall.
Northern Mexico – Cities in the northern part of Mexico, such as Guadalajara and Chihuahua, see temperatures rising into the mid-30s during the summer months. The best time to visit Northern Mexico is from October to May when daytime temperatures are pleasant enough for sightseeing. However, note that nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C and even single digits.
Gulf Coast – Like most parts of the country, the best time to visit the Gulf Coast of Mexico is from November to May, when rainfall levels are at their lowest and conditions are suitable to spend time at the beach and enjoy outdoor activities.
Southern Mexico – With cities such as Oaxaca and Chiapas, Southern Mexico is a cultural hotspot, and the region is best visited from October to May. Oaxaca, the culinary capital of Mexico, tends to get busy during the summer period from June to August, and Christmas and New Year.
Yucatán Peninsula – Clear skies and calm seas dominate the dry months from December to May, making it an excellent time for snorkelling and water activities. From June to November, rains increase, and hurricanes are possible.
What you pack for your Mexico trip depends on the destinations and the time of the year you are visiting.
The dress code along the coast is relaxed, and skirts, dresses and shorts work well. Carry a cover-up for times when you want to step off the beach. Sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hats are an absolute must to protect yourself from the Mexican sun. Flip-flops and waterproof shoes are useful to take along.
Further inland, dressing styles get a little more conservative, and it’s rare to see women and men in shorts. Linen pants work well for Mexico’s heat and humidity. Women can pack long dresses, skirts, blouses and tops that are not too revealing. Men can bring full-length trousers and closed shoes to visit nightclubs and upscale restaurants.
Mexico’s cities, beach towns, and archaeological sites demand a lot of walking, so be sure to invest in a pair of good-quality walking shoes. Bring your rain jacket and umbrella if you travel during the rainy season. Temperatures in towns at higher altitudes can drop down to single digits during the winter months, so bring warm clothes you can layer if you visit during this period.
Plan your trip to Mexico with expert advice from our destination specialists, and we’ll design an itinerary that matches your interests and wishlists while showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of this country
“Mexico’s Caribbean coast has dotted island gems along it. Board a ferry and head across to Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox or Cozumel for a taste of authentic Mexico and a quieter pace of life either for a few nights or a day trip.”
“Another truly unique holiday experience is to visit one of the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula. These underground natural, mythical-looking blue pools will transport you to another world. Revered by Mexico’s ancient Mayan civilisation as spiritual portals, today you can swim, snorkel or dive in their mineral-rich fresh waters. There is nowhere else like it and you’ll love them!”
We could go on, and that leads us to the real reason to visit Mexico – its astounding diversity and variety.
Our Mexico twin-centre holidays open your eyes to the varied sceneries of Mexico.
One of the best things to do in Mexico is to tour its many stellar museums, some of which are housed in spectacular buildings.
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